FUTURE OF HARDWARE STORES SPEAKER: NEW TRENDS, INNOVATIONS IN RETAIL

Being future of hardware stores speakers and retail futurists, we thought we might take you on a tour of topics we’re being asked to present on lately…

• Increased focus on pro customers – Catering to professional contractors through trade accounts, dedicated staff, job site delivery, etc. are all common asks of future of hardware stores speakers.
• Specialization – Stores targeted to specific niches like lumber, building materials, paint and decorating, tools/equipment.
• Classes and training – In-store and online clinics and demos to share expertise on projects, tools, techniques.
• Digital integration – Robust e-commerce options from future of hardware stores speakers’ standpoint paired with in-store pickups and returns. Digital tools like design apps.
• Customization – Products and services tailored to individual projects using technologies like 3D printing.
• Private labels – Expanding quality store brands across more categories.
• Experience focus – Positioning stores as destinations and hubs for home improvement advice beyond just transactions.
• Younger customers – Appealing in future of hardware stores speakers’ eyes to millennial and Gen Z shoppers through updated brand image and digital savvy.
• Supply chain improvement – Investments in inventory management systems, distribution networks to enable rapid fulfillment.
• Sustainability – Eco-friendly stores and offerings, energy conservation, recycling programs.
• Streamlined checkout – Mobile scan-and-go apps, self-checkout, contactless payment to reduce wait times.
• Workforce training – From a future of hardware stores speaker’s standpoint, investing in employee skills development related to emerging technologies and building trends.
• Smaller formats – More localized and convenience-oriented stores in urban areas.